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By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

Up to 50 members of the Alabama National Guard could be headed to Florida in response to Hurricane Dorian.

Gov. Kay Ivey announced her approval to send support personnel today, Aug. 30.

According to the National Weather Service, Hurricane Dorian “has strengthened to a major hurricane and is tracking toward the Bahamas.”

The storm is expected to reach Florida at the beginning of next week.

“Alabamians believe in neighbors helping neighbors, and we stand ready to support the Floridians however we can,” Ivey said in a press release. “Alabama is familiar with severe weather and the unpredictability of Mother Nature. Preparedness is always key, and we are proud to help Florida as they brace for potential impact from Hurricane Dorian.”

Remaining Alabama National Guard members will be ready to respond should the storm reach Alabama.

“Providing defense support to civilian authorities is a core mission for the Alabama National Guard. Our soldiers and airmen are highly trained, well equipped and ready to respond to assist our neighbors in other states as requested,” ALNG Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Sheryl Gordon said in a press release.

Ivey and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis had spoken on the phone prior to Ivey’s announcement.

“We are continually monitoring the storm system and will also ensure that Alabama is ready, should we receive any impact,” Ivey said.

She said she is also in communication with Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Brian Hastings as the storm progresses.